The Oyo State government moved on with the installation of three new beaded-crown Obas in Ibadan on Friday, despite the traditional rulers being physically absent from the ceremony.
The newly elevated monarchs include Senator Sharafadeen Alli, Adebayo Akande, and Lateef Oyelade.
The coronation took place at the historic Mapo Hall, even after the chiefs had formally requested a postponement.
In the lead-up to the event, the chiefs notified the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters—as well as the palace of High Chief Rashidi Ladoja—that they would be unavailable.
However, the state government opted to ignore the request for a delay, a move that sparked significant concern within the Ibadan Traditional Council and the general public.
Representing Governor Seyi Makinde, Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal defended the decision to proceed, citing the following reasons:
*The installation was conducted under the Chiefs Law of Oyo State.
*The government aimed to prevent any “vacuum” within the highly structured Ibadan chieftaincy hierarchy.
*Officials insisted the ceremony adhere to the established schedule and traditional systems.
Despite the friction surrounding the ceremony, the governor urged the new monarchs to lead with wisdom, integrity, and a commitment to unity.
The administration emphasized that traditional rulers are indispensable partners in maintaining peace and driving grassroots development across the state.
“The process is necessary to sustain the integrity of the Ibadan traditional system and ensure continuity,” he stated.
The ceremony witnessed the presence of key members of the Olubadan-in-Council, led by the Balogun of Ibadanland, Tajudeen Ajibola, who represented the Olubadan.
Their attendance lent institutional legitimacy to the event, even as the absence of the newly crowned chiefs and other notable figures drew attention.
The turnout reflected a delicate balancing act between adherence to state authority and loyalty to traditional processes, underscoring the evolving dynamics between government oversight and customary institutions.
Amid speculation of a possible rift between the state government and the Olubadan’s palace, the monarch’s camp moved to quell such claims, insisting that relations between Governor Makinde and Oba Rashidi Ladoja remain cordial.
The palace maintained that the request for postponement by the affected chiefs was procedural and should not be interpreted as a breakdown in relations.
Despite the controversy, the event retained its cultural significance, with traditional rites and displays adding colour to the proceedings.
Security was also heightened around Mapo Hall as dignitaries, government officials and stakeholders gathered for the occasion.
Among those formally installed were Akeem Adewoyin, Oyekola Babalola and Senator Alli, who were presented with beaded crowns and staff of office as part of their elevation within the Ibadan Traditional Council.
In his remarks, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Ademola Ojo, described the event as a milestone in the evolution of Ibadan’s traditional institution.
He said the conferment was not merely ceremonial but a reaffirmation of the state’s commitment to preserving cultural heritage and upholding due process.
“Ibadanland has long been known for its unique and highly structured traditional system. This occasion strengthens that legacy and reinforces the bond between government and traditional institutions,” he said.
Ojo also commended Governor Makinde for his support for traditional rulers, describing them as indispensable partners in governance and development.
The commissioner stressed that the honour comes with increased responsibility to uphold tradition, foster unity and contribute to development.
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